By Dr. Anne Kariuki – On December 8 of last year, my dear brother Francis Njoroge Githire went home to be with the Lord. Though a full year has passed, I still see his bright, contagious smile as vividly as ever. His memory remains a wellspring of joy, strength, and cherished reflection. I share this tribute not out of grief—for Francis rests safely in the arms of his Savior—nor to elevate a beloved brother, for only Christ bestows crowns of glory. I share his story to encourage believers everywhere: a testimony of faith, prayer, and a life shaped by unwavering conviction.
Scripture reminds us that the stories of those who have gone before us are meant to inspire us to persevere. Hebrews 11 presents men and women who lived by faith, and Hebrews 12 points to them as examples—not spectators—encouraging us through their lives of obedience. They urge us to keep running the race with our eyes fixed firmly on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith.
Just as the Acts of the Apostles and the heroes of Hebrews testify to God’s faithfulness, so do the lives of believers today. My brother Njoroge was one such testimony—quiet, steady, and deeply impactful.
A Man of Faith and Commitment to Christ
Njoroge’s life was anchored in faith. He faced every challenge with a resilient spirit rooted in the belief that “all things are possible to those who believe” (Mark 9:23). When my husband and I sought a college in the United States for him, God opened unexpected doors. Even when the university that initially admitted him abruptly closed, the Lord honored Njoroge’s steadfast faith. He received his visa, God miraculously provided airfare for his entire family, and Njoroge was later admitted to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where he began classes exactly when he had prayed and believed he would.
A Passion for One-to-One Evangelism
Njoroge had a remarkable gift for reaching the lost. He never met a stranger. To shop with him was to witness divine appointments unfold in grocery aisles, parking lots, stairways, and waiting rooms. His evangelism was personal, spirit-led, and fruitful…